A Guide to Australian Cancer Support Services: Products and Resources by State

A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, not just for patients but for their entire support network. Understanding and accessing available support services is crucial for managing the cancer journey effectively. In Australia, there are comprehensive cancer support systems across all states and territories at your disposal. In 2016-18 there was approximately $252 million in funding provided for cancer research and support programs in Australia.

In this guide, we'll explore the essential cancer support services available throughout Australia, break down cancer resources by state, and recommend helpful products that can enhance quality of life during treatment and recovery.

State-by-State Cancer Support Services

New South Wales

• Cancer Council NSW Information and Support Line
• Face-to-Face and online support groups 
• Cancer Connect, a program which brings people who have experienced cancer together
• Look Good Feel Better workshops - Workshops which help build and grow confidence for those who have been affected by cancer treatments. Another way to enhance confidence is investing in hair care, such as Aurora Directs Healthy Hair and Scalp bundle
• Transport to Treatment program 

Victoria

• Cancer Council Victoria Information and Support line
• Victorian Cancer Survivor Support Program - a service which provides support for those who are living beyond their cancer diagnosis  
• Wig service and headwear program 
• Aurora Direct sells a range of scarves and headwear to help assist you and your confidence on your cancer journey 

Queensland

• Cancer Council QLD Information and Support line
• Cancer Council Queensland's Lodge Accommodation - independent living facilities for those who need to travel to access cancer treatment 
• Ponytail project - empowering those across Australia to donate hair for those in need
• Support groups for chemotherapy and radiation 
• Check out Enterade, clinically proven to reduce the side effects of cancer treatment 

 Western Australia

• Cancer Council Western Australia Information and Support line 
• Cancer Council WA's Life Now Exercise program - a 12 week course which is personalised to each individuals needs and wants in a supportive group environment 
• Crawford Lodge and Milroy Lodge accommodation - offer accommodation for those who need accommodation while receiving cancer treatment. 
• Aurora Bioscience ice cold gloves and socks are easy to take on the go and highly efficient in controlling neuropathy symptoms 

South Australia

• Cancer Council South Australia Information and Support line
• Cancer Council SA's Greenhill Lodges accommodation 
• Financial Planning Referral Service & Legal Referral Service - Legal and Financial assistance through contacting Cancer Council 

Tasmania

• Cancer Council South Australia Information and Support line
• Cancer Council Tasmania's Transport2Treatment service - provides transport to Tasmanian residents who struggle to get to and from cancer treatment
• Support and Information Services available on the cancer council website 
• Complementary Therapy Programs such as mindfulness, yoga and Tai Chi 

Northern Territory & ACT

• Cancer Council South Australia Information and Support line
• Remote Patient Travel Scheme - financial help for travel and accommodation expenses 
• Specialist counselling services

National Support Services

Cancer Council Australia offers nationwide support through:

• 13 11 20 Information and Support line
• Online community forums
• Financial assistance programs
• Legal and workplace support

Australia's cancer support services provide comprehensive assistance across all states and territories. Whether you need practical help, emotional support, or specific products to assist in your journey, there are services available to help. Remember that support needs may change throughout your cancer experience, and it's important to stay connected with these services as your requirements evolve.

Visit Aurora Direct today to explore their full range of cancer care products and find the support you need for your journey.